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Restoril
Restoril is a medication that is used to treat insomnia. The drug belongs to a class of medications known as benzodiazepines, which are known for causing effects such as sleepiness and reduced anxiety. Because it can work rather quickly, Restoril is taken right before you are ready to fall asleep. Possible side effects include drowsiness, lethargy, and dizziness.
Restoril® (temazepam) is a prescription sleep medication approved for the treatment of insomnia. In general, it should only be used as a short-term treatment (for no longer than seven to ten days).
(Click Restoril Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
Restoril is currently made by Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals Group. Generic versions are made by several different manufacturers.
Restoril is one of a group of medications known as benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines have several different effects on the body, including:
All benzodiazepine medications can have these effects to some degree, depending on the specific medication and the dose. They work in the brain by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a brain chemical that is naturally calming. GABA can slow down or stop certain nerve signals in the brain. This is why Restoril and other benzodiazepines are known as mild tranquilizers, sedatives, or central nervous system depressants (CNS depressants).
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD